July 13, 2014
The 17th annual “Catch the Spirit Gala” held at Swan Lake Resort on July 11 will assist thousands of those in the community for many years to come.
The proceeds from the event will benefit the Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center-“Investing in our Community”- emergency room expansion campaign. The facilities slated to be completed by September, 2015 will bring state-of -the art healthcare to Marshall County.
The $8.5 million project has been totally funded by CHE-Trinity Health. The cost will fund both the construction and basic equipment; however, those involved in the project are hoping to raise another $1 million through local donations to provide added enhancements. Donations will be placed in the Marshall County Community Foundation for disbursement.
According to SJRMC Plymouth Board Chair, John Zeglis, $642,000 of that amount has already been pledged. Zeglis said, “Every dollar raised here is going to stay here in Marshall County.”
Zeglis shared what he termed “our secret sauce” as caring people who care for others. He then announced that the expanded facility will be named for the late Daisy and John Oliver. Their son, John J. Oliver, has been a long-time supporter of SJRMC.
After the meeting, Oliver said, “The opportunity to honor the memory of my parents actually excited three generations of our family. All were aware of the sacrifices Mom and Dad made by emigrating from England with the hope to provide their children a better life.” He added, “They dedicated the rest of their lives to this objective.”
By way of history, Daisy Oliver became a nurse in her 40’s after being awarded a scholarship by a major Salt Lake City hospital. Oliver said, “This too, became a life-long devotion. For the last ten years of her life, she continued to nurse while battling cancer, suffering several relapses before succumbing to the disease.”
Oliver has seen first-hand both sides of what it takes and means to have an outstanding hospital facility in the county. He said, “I have served as a board member and Chair at the Plymouth Campus (SJRMC) and also received wonderful care while dealing with my own cancer.” “The opportunity to honor my parents by associating with such a meaningful improvement in the quality of care for our community is a privilege my entire family appreciates.” he said.
The current emergency room at SJRMC Plymouth Campus extended care to approximately 16,000 patient last year.
Among other things, improvements to the emergency care will double the size going from 6,000 square feet to 12,000 square feet. Zeglis indicated that enhancements would increase patient dignity and family comfort by including such upgrades as private rooms and improved waiting areas along with adding mental health facilities, on-site prescription services, mobile equipment and x-ray/imaging equipment within the emergency room.
Zeglis said, “Everybody wins with great healthcare in the community.”
Carol Anders Correspondent